2014 BMW models selling out quickly

Birchwood BMW began receiving the all-new 2014 4-Series and X5 models at the beginning of December, but they're not staying around for long.

"We very quickly sold out the first few X5s that we received, and the first half-dozen 4 Series models that came in were pre-sold," sales manager Matt Stevens said.

"The 4-Series is not just a redesigned version of the 3-Series. In fact, it's entirely brand new. The 4-Series is more fuel-efficient than the 3-Series, more powerful, has a smoother ride and has a longer wheelbase, which provides more room for children and adults in the back seat. The 4-Series models can comfortably fit four adults."

The 4-Series is available as the 428i or 428i xDrive, and 435i or 435i xDrive coupe, all powered by BMW's TwinPower in-line 6-cylinder engine.

Stevens said new technology includes the ConnectedDrive Services Professional which provides a wide range of information, entertainment and service features. Of particular note is the iDrive Touch system which allows the driver to enter information for the navigation centre via a touchpad.

"You can write the information in just using your finger," he said.

The 2014 BMW X5 has a new engine that is more powerful yet more energy-efficient than the previous generation. The 35i trim is powered by a TwinPower turbo 3L, six-cylinder engine, while the 50i version has a 4.4L V8 that produces 445 hp and up to 480 lb.-ft. of torque. A diesel option is also available.

Stevens noted the new X5's more prominent grille, aerodynamic front bumper, brighter headlights, heated and ventilated front and rear seats and a new navigation system, as well as the iDrive Touch system.

The 2014 X5 starts at around $65,000, while the 4-Series line starts at a little over $50,000.

Redesigned 2014 Nissan Rogue arrives

The 2014 Nissan Rogue, which arrived in local showrooms in mid-December, is also selling well, says Crown Nissan sales rep Dennis Patkau.

"We sold four models the first day they were on the showroom floor," he said, noting that the Rogue has been completely redesigned. "Everything about the 2014 Rogue is new."

The crossover is powered by 2.5L four-cylinder engine that produces 170 horsepower and 175 pound-feet of torque. Patkau said fuel economy is outstanding and the 2014 Rogue also runs quieter than its predecessors.

Among the new features are LED headlights, a dual moonroof and an optional third row of seats. Options include a 360-degree view camera, moving-object detection, blind-spot warning, lane-departure warning and forward-collision warning.

Prices for the Rogue range from about $25,000 to $35,000.

Pat Priestner Buys Mid-Town Ford

Mid-Town Ford in the Waverley Auto Mall is under new ownership. Edmonton-based auto dealer Pat Priestner purchased the long-standing Ford store from Rob Fridfinnson at the beginning of December.

"I was very happy to be able to buy Mid-Town," Priestner said. "Mid-Town is the top-selling Ford dealer in Manitoba. Rob (Fridfinnson) did a great job of running the store. It's a great operation in a fantastic location."

Mid-Town Ford has had a long history in Winnipeg. Originally called Consolidated Ford, the store was owned by Pierre Lemieux and Gerry Little and for many years was located on Pembina Highway near Stafford.

Rob Fridfinnson became Little's partner in 2001 and bought the business outright in 2004, shortly after the move to the Waverley Auto Mall.

Priestner has appointed Scott Campbell as Mid-Town's general sales manager. It's a homecoming for Campbell, who previously worked at Mid-Town as service manager before heading to Alberta in 2006.

"Scott has a lot of family in Winnipeg and was happy to have the opportunity to come back here," Priestner said.

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